Heraklion prefecture
Heraklion Prefecture is the heart of Crete, offering a perfect blend of ancient Minoan history, Venetian charm, and rugged natural beauty. Whether you are a history buff, a beach lover, or a fan of traditional village life, there is plenty to explore.
Historical Landmarks
Palace of Knossos: Located just 5km from Heraklion city, this is the most famous Minoan site in the world. It is the legendary home of King Minos and the Labyrinth of the Minotaur.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum: Widely considered one of the best in Europe, it houses the original frescoes and artifacts found at Knossos and other Minoan palaces.
Koules Fortress (Rocca a Mare): A 16th-century Venetian fortress guarding the entrance to the Old Port. You can walk along the harbor walls for a fantastic view of the sea.
Phaistos Minoan Palace: Located in the south, this site offers stunning views of the Messara Plain and is where the mysterious Phaistos Disc was discovered.
Ancient Gortyn: Once the Roman capital of Crete, this site features the famous Law Code of Gortyn, carved into a stone wall that still stands today.
Scenic Villages & Nature
Matala: Famous for its hand-carved Neolithic caves and its 1960s hippie history, this seaside village has a unique “retro” vibe and a beautiful beach.
Kapetania: a beautiful settlement in the heart of Asterousia, offers a unique experience. Built on a natural “balcony” overlooking the Libyan Sea and Kofinas mountain peak, it has a history that dates back to the Minoan years.
Archanes: A colorful, award-winning traditional village known for its restored neoclassical houses, local wine, and proximity to the sacred Mount Juktas.
Mount Ida (Psiloritis): The highest peak in Crete. Hikers can visit the Ideon Andron cave, one of the legendary birthplaces of Zeus.
- Zaros: Famous for its rich waters, its name means “the place where many waters flow.” Modern life revolves around water, with bottling plants and trout farms. Visitors can enjoy the Gafari Gorge, the Rouvas Forest and the picturesque Lake Votomos. The area also offers a rich religious tradition with numerous monasteries and churches.
City of Heraklion
Heraklion is the biggest city on the island of Crete, with amazing buildings and museums. During the Venetian republic era it was called Candia, and it’s home of the Minoan civilization at nearby Knossos.
Hightlights & Gems
Morosini (Lions) Fountain: The central meeting point of Heraklion city, surrounded by bustling cafes and bakeries.
Churches: Across the Morosini Fountain is St. Markos Basilica, and within walking distance from the Fountain St. Titus (behind the Loggia) and St. Minas are located.
Loggia: the official meeting place for nobles and lords during the Venetian occupation of Heraklion, a kind of private club. Today is houses the Heraklion town hall.
Venetian Walls: You can walk along the top of these massive fortifications to find the Tomb of Nikos Kazantzakis, the author of Zorba the Greek, which offers panoramic views of the city.
Lakkos Neighborhood: A once-neglected area that has been transformed by local artists into a vibrant district of street art and hidden “raki” spots.
Cretaquarium: Located in Gournes, it is one of the largest and most modern aquariums in Europe, focusing on Mediterranean marine life.
